Scientific Understanding
X451
Tuesday
1:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
This course provides an advanced introduction to central issues
within contemporary philosophy of science:
What is the cognitive aim of scientific inquiry? (Samples of the
realism-instrumentalism debate from DUHEM, VAN FRAASSEN, FINE) 2.
What is the nature of scientific explanation? (Models proposed by
HEMPEL, ACHENSTEIN, VAN FRAASSEN, SALMON, KITCHER) 3. How can the
degree of confirmation or the strength of evidential support be
measured? (CARNAPIAN & BAYESIAN approaches; POPPER's skeptical
critique of inductivism) 4. What methodology promotes the process
of science? (Views of POPPER, KUHN, LAKATOS, LAUDAN, LONGINO; ideas
for the normative sociology of science)
Grades will be based on short essays, exams, and class participation.
MEETS WITH X551